Autumn sunshine greeted runners to the stunning village of Ripley, North Yorkshire on the Sunday that is actually ‘bonifire night’, ‘plot night’ whatever is your phrase of choice! Hosted by Nidd Valley Road Runners and supported by Up & Running, the Guy Fawkes 10 mile race is a famously, super hilly course taking in the stunning countryside of Nidderdale and passing through the villages of Birstwith and Hampsthwaite. The race then finishes in the grounds of the stunning Ripley Castle. The route itself is a largely scenic one, travelling along country lanes, yet distinctively challenging with 4 hills and very little flat, each so severe they are given names! With an entry limit of 1000 runners, the race sells out year on year and can be traced back as far as 2006. Ripley Castle has been the home of the Ingleby family for twenty six generations and Sir Thomas and Lady Ingleby and their five children continue the tradition. Did we mention this was a hilly 10 mile run? And that the hills have names? The three climbs of note are quirkily named – ‘Birstwith Brute’, ‘Swincliffe Swine’ and ‘For Fawkes Sake’ with the route up to the finish being newky named Hollybank Hell, the scenery along the route though is stunning. It boasts a total ascent of 360 metres. The start is in the shadow of the stunning Castle, for the finish, participants run uphill with the help of the cheering crowds and into the stunning courtyard. Perfect weather made for fabulous conditions for running today, a smattering of sutumnal sunshine, a breeze and a very special mention must also go to the marshals out on the course who were absolutely amazing with their support and encouragement making for an all round fabulous event. Finishers were rewarded with the famous goodie bag containing, Yorkshire Tea and an array of chocolates, sweets and in addition a long sleeved technical tee-shirt! The customary visit to Ripley Stores for bacon, egg, sausage and other delights of the breakfast table was enjoyed by the team afterwards!
Eccleshill had 12 runners out in the Blue and White this year, those who couldn’t resist the challenge to take on the Birstwith Brute, the Swincliffe Swine, For Fawkes Sake & Hollybank Hell were: Claire Hern 1:14:45 (1st F45); Marc Steele 1:25:01; Talhah Butt 1:29:56; Julie Steele 1:37:10; Vicky Cousins 1:38:19; Jackie Bywater 1:40:48; Barbara Stow 1:57:53; Linda Bussey 2:06:20; Garry Ellison 2:06:19; Sarah Rawlings 2:06:21; Sarah Myers 2:06:21. All finishers received a well stocked goody bag, a long sleeved T-shirt. Brilliant running everyone, well done! Massive thanks to our support crew!
